See if your school made the list of Top 408 in CA for student success

ROHNERT PARK-COTATI, CA — When students walk across the stage at graduation, their success reflects years of dedication from teachers, staff, and their community. Today, State Superintendent Tony Thurmond recognized 408 middle and high schools as 2026 California Distinguished Schools, celebrating the ones that deliver outstanding student outcomes and innovative educational programs across the state.

Since 1985, the California Distinguished Schools Program has honored schools, districts, educators, and staff who provide life-changing educational opportunities. This year’s honorees will join recipients of the 2025 California Blue Ribbon Schools, 2026 Green Achievers, 2026 Exemplary Dual Enrollment Award Schools, and 2025 Civic Learning Awards of Excellence at a recognition ceremony at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim on April 24.

“It is my pleasure to honor and recognize these 408 schools for their efforts to move the needle for student achievement, no matter what,” Thurmond said. “An excellent public education transforms lives, and I commend educators and school communities who dedicate themselves to producing exemplary results.”

The 2026 awards highlight schools in three categories:

• Exemplary High Achievers: Schools leading the state in academic achievement for all students, while supporting historically underserved groups.
• Achievement Gap Closers: Schools accelerating growth for multiple underserved groups while maintaining above-median performance for all students.
• Beacons of Opportunity: Schools in rural and low-income communities demonstrating high performance across multiple outcomes.

Eligibility depends on the California School Dashboard, which tracks metrics including graduation rates, college and career readiness, and participation in statewide assessments. Schools must achieve at least 95 percent participation in testing and maintain positive climate indicators, such as low suspension and chronic absenteeism rates. Middle and high schools are considered every even year, while elementary and K–8 schools alternate in odd years.

The recognition spotlights California’s largest public school system and honors the educators and staff who consistently provide students with pathways to graduation, college, and career success. By combining accountability, equity, and innovation, the Distinguished Schools Program celebrates schools that set the bar for excellence across the state.

SONOMA COUNTY

• Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified – Credo High School
• Gravenstein Union Elementary – Hillcrest Middle School
• Petaluma Joint Union High – Casa Grande High School